Slips, Falls, And The Elderly

If you have elderly family members, you have to be concerned about the risk of slip-and-fall accidents. As we age, reactions are slower and healing takes longer, so the elderly are at the highest risk for serious slip-and-fall injuries. If you or someone you love is injured in a slip-and-fall accident in the Chicago area, discuss your legal rights and options promptly with a trustworthy Chicago personal injury lawyer. When another person’s negligence is responsible for a slip-and-fall injury, under Illinois law the victim is legally entitled to compensation, but you’ll have to fight for that compensation with your lawyer’s help.

You can take several safety measures to help your elderly loved ones avoid slip-and-fall injuries. Schedule regular medical check-ups. Vision problems, medicines that cause drowsiness or disorientation, and common afflictions like Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s put older people at greater risk of slipping and falling. Ensure that your elderly loved one is in a safe living situation. Many older people need “grab” bars in the shower. There should be plenty of lighting. Be sure that carpets and rugs don’t curl or buckle. If your elderly family member is the resident of a nursing home, visit routinely, acquaint yourself with the staff, and be vigilant when you visit. Look for any indications of abuse, risk, or danger.

Speak as quickly as possible with an experienced Chicago personal injury lawyer if you or someone your love is injured in a slip-and-fall accident caused by another person’s negligence. Your lawyer can examine your case and offer the sound legal advice you need. If you choose to file a lawsuit, the right lawyer will fight aggressively on your behalf for the compensation you need and deserve. Help is available to Chicago-area injury victims, but you must take the first step and make the call.